How to Connect Wire Rat Cages

Rats have quickly become one of the most popular small pet species in many areas of the world. No longer seen as disease-ridden rodents, rats have found a home along with gerbils and hamsters as loving, easy-to-care-for pets. Curious and social, rats thrive in a large living space with many nooks and crannies to explore. Large cages can be very costly, but connecting two smaller cages is cost effective and allows you to customize your cage to suit your rats' specific needs.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire cutters
  • Gloves
  • Pliers
  • Metal file
  • Zip ties
  • Bird ladders
  • Bedding
  • Toys
  • Food dishes
  • Water bottle
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Instructions

  1. How to Connect Wire Rat Cages

    • 1

      Set your cages on top of each other to make sure they will fit well and be balanced when connected. If they are the same size, it does not matter which one you place on top. If they are not, the smaller one should go on top for maximum stability.

    • 2

      Cut two aligning holes in the top of your bottom cage and two holes in the bottom of your top cage, placing the holes at opposite ends of the cage. The holes need to be big enough to comfortably accommodate an adult rat, so make sure they are properly sized. Trim away any excess wire and wear your gloves to keep from cutting yourself as you work on the cage.

    • 3

      Bend over any exposed edges with your pliers. Rats are very curious and will explore every single inch of their new home, so eliminating any sharp edges is necessary for their safety. You can also file down exposed edges with a heavy metal file to prevent possible injuries.

    • 4

      Connect your cages with your zip ties. Space your ties every three or four inches around joint of the cages, pulling the ties tight to eliminate shifting. Trim the excess ends from the ties to keep your cage tidy and prevent your rats from chewing on them.

    • 5

      Attach a bird ladder under each hole to allow your rats to climb between levels. Lean the ladder against the side of the cage and secure it with a zip tie to stabilize it. Refill the bottom cage with fresh bedding and replace your rats' toys, food bowls and water bottles to make sure they are happy and well stimulated in their newly expanded cage.